Advance care planning allows you to make your voice heard so your wishes are followed. You can provide clarity and understanding among family members, your doctor and healthcare team. Advance care planning involves these important steps:

Choose a healthcare agent – This person makes healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to make decisions for yourself.

Engage in conversations – Discuss your values and wishes about future healthcare with your healthcare agent, doctor and other important people in your life.

Complete a Healthcare Directive – This is a written plan for your future medical treatments.

If you do not have a written Healthcare Directive, you will still receive medical treatment. Your healthcare team will listen to what people close to you say about your treatment wishes.